The Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center of Nevada

2020 W. Palomino Lane Suite 110

Las Vegas, Nevada 89106

702-385-2702

since May 5, 2008

Last updated May 5, 2008

webmaster RIS

Argatroban for Dialysis Catheter Patency

Persons on hemodialysis require insertion of heparin into the catheter in order to prevent clotting from occurring.  While it is unusual for these patients to develop heparin induced thrombocytopenia, it may occur.  For these patients, we published an anectodal report using rifludan to prevent clots.  This was done before the newer agent argatroban was available.  Rifludan requires normal kidneys to be cleared adequately from the body.  However, Argatroban is cleared through the liver.  Therefore, it makes sense to use Argatroban instead of Rifludan to see if it is as effective as it may be safer for the patient.

This study is open at the University Medical Center for any person with a dialysis cathether and a history of heparin induced thrombocytopenia that precludes the use of heparin.  

For more information, contact Dr. Shopnick.

UPDATE:

Three patients have been accrued to study.  All have tolerated drug well without complications.  Active accrual for two more patients is ongoing.

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Last modified: March 02, 2008